Auxiliary Firefighter Feature: Nick Leighton
The City of Vernon Fire Station #3, at Predator Ridge, with its rich history and commitment to safety, plays a vital role in our year-round community.
In July 2023, ten passionate individuals completed their training and orientation, becoming operational as auxiliary firefighters at City of Vernon Fire Station #3 on Predator Ridge Drive.
Our auxiliary firefighters are more than just responders—they’re pillars of our community, enhancing not only the safety and security of our community but bringing an added sense of safety to our residents.
We’re excited to shine a spotlight on the dedicated individuals who serve as auxiliary firefighters right here at Predator Ridge. Through these features, we’ll introduce you to our auxiliary firefighters, exploring their motivations to become a part of the firefighting community, their personal experiences, and the invaluable role that they play in fostering community spirit.
This month, we’re featuring Nick Leighton! Read the feature below to learn more about Nick and his experience as a new auxiliary firefighter.
How Long Have You Been A Volunteer Firefighter?
One year and two months since we began training.
What Inspired You Or Motivated You To Become A Volunteer Firefighter? Was It A Specific Moment, Incident, Conversation, Or Experience?
Well since retiring in 2016 I have had a few part time jobs, all of which I took to continue to challenge myself. When the Volunteer Firefighter position was advertised, I jumped at the opportunity to really push myself in a different direction.
I also felt that this was something that was really needed at Predator Ridge. There have been some great steps forward in the last couple of years, with SenseNet and the Fire Siren, but having boots on the ground is key.
What Are Some Of The Key Responsibilities You Have As A Volunteer Firefighter In Our Community?
I am one of the drivers and pump operators. We are constantly training to improve how quickly we can get water onto a structure, so the pump operator is a big part of this.
Learning to drive the Engine and passing the air brake course wasn’t the easiest thing in the world either.
How Has Being An Auxillary Firefighter Impacted Your Perspective On Community, Camaraderie, And Teamwork?
Teamwork and safety are a massive part of what we do. We have a really excellent Training Officer from Station One, and he puts a huge emphasis on this. Each firefighter has a defined role, and we trust each other to work as a team.
It seems that each week we learn something new and being part of a team really helps with remembering all this new information.
Are There Any Specific Skills Or Training You've Acquired As A Firefighter That You Find Particularly Valuable Or Interesting?
What has really surprised me is how much there is to learn and study. We have all just had to study hazardous materials , learning about various hazards and how to deal with them. We start wildland training at the beginning of June. We also just received a new fire engine which is quite different from the previous one, so myself and the other drivers are now training with a completely different system for the pump operations.
Are There Any Community Outreach Or Educational Activities You're Involved In As A Firefighter?
I am part of the FireSmart team at Predator Ridge and we just had a clean-up at a location near the dog park. Whilst we live in a beautiful area, we are surrounded by hazards and need to be aware of this. I would encourage all residents to do their part and participate in the FireSmart clean ups and keep the areas around your homes clear of combustible materials.
What’s One Quick Fire Safety Tip For Our Residents That They Can Use At Home?
Always have a “Grab and Go” bag ready.